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Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Citroën SM Coupé Frua: A Blend of French and Italian Design

ONE-OFF - Imagine a time when two great automotive cultures collided, producing a car that beautifully combined the best of both worlds. This was the Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Coupé Frua, a stunning blend of French innovation and Italian flair. The creation of this car was not just a merging of technologies but a meeting of minds, reflecting the era’s adventurous spirit in car design.
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is a stunning blend of French innovation and Italian flair. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The story of the Citroën SM Coupé Frua began when Citroën acquired Maserati in 1968. This acquisition was a bold move, marking the start of a new chapter for both companies. Maserati, known for its powerful and stylish cars, brought its engineering prowess to the table. Citroën, famous for its advanced technology and unique designs, offered a fresh perspective. This partnership led to the creation of cars that were not only beautiful but also groundbreaking.
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua representing not just a merging of technologies but a meeting of minds, reflecting the era’s adventurous spirit in car design. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
One of the first fruits of this collaboration was the Maserati Bora. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro, the Bora was a sleek, mid-engine sports car with a 4,700cc V8 engine. Its clean lines and powerful performance set the stage for future Maserati models. Following the Bora, the Maserati Khamsin was introduced, featuring a conventional front-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout and a robust V8 engine. 
The Citroën SM (Serie Maserati) Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua stood alongside its Italian sibling, the Maserati Khamsin. (Picture from: Citroenvie)
The Khamsin's design
shared several elements with the Frua-styled concept car, highlighting the synergy between Citroën and Maserati. Furthermore, the Maserati Khamsin was a rear-wheel-drive car, the Citroën SM was a front-wheel-drive vehicle powered by a distinctive 90-degree Maserati V6 engine. This engineering choice showcased the innovative approach of both brands. 
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua was a unique prototype that incorporated Citroën SM mechanical components and exhibited a design that foreshadowed future Maserati models. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The Citroën SM Coupé Frua was a product of this era of experimentation and collaboration. Built by the Italian coachbuilder Carrozzeria Frua in 1971, the SM Coupé Frua made its debut at the Geneva Salon in March 1972. It was a unique prototype that incorporated Citroën SM mechanical components and exhibited a design that foreshadowed future Maserati models.
The interior of the Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is covered in black genuine leather and features a three-spoke steering wheel and a modern layout dashboard. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
Despite the allure of the front-wheel-drive configuration, Maserati chose to go with a mid-engine layout for its Merak model, using the Citroën-inspired V6 engine. This decision did not diminish the impact of the Citroën SM Coupé Frua, which remains a testament to Citroën’s forward-thinking design philosophy. The partnership between Citroën and Maserati during this period resulted in remarkable innovations and iconic vehicles that have left a lasting legacy in the automotive world.
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua propelled by a distinctive front-mounted 90-degree Maserati V6 engine. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
After Citroën was acquired by Peugeot in 1975, the production of the SM came to an end. The Frua prototype, however, continued to capture the imagination of car enthusiasts. Following its initial display in Geneva, the car was showcased again in 1973 and at the International Motor Show in Barcelona, Spain. It eventually found its way into private ownership in Spain before being acquired by its current owner in Italy in the late 1980s.
The Citroën SM Prototipo Coupé by Carrozzeria Frua is adorned with unique flying buttresses, which clearly differentiate it from the Maserati Khamsin. (Picture from: Carrozzieri-Italiani)
The car underwent partial restoration between 2011 and 2012, preserving its unique character and historical significance. With 41,946 kilometers (about 26,000 miles) on the odometer, the Frua prototype remains in generally good condition. It comes with Spanish registration papers, offering a rare opportunity for collectors to own a piece of automotive history. This one-of-a-kind car, crafted by the talented Pietro Frua, is not just a vehicle but an entry ticket to some of the most prestigious concours d'élégance events.
The Citroën SM Coupé Frua is a remarkable example of what can be achieved when two different automotive philosophies come together. It embodies the spirit of innovation and collaboration that defined its era, standing as a symbol of the creative synergy between French and Italian automotive cultures. This car is more than just a fascinating 'might have been'; it is a celebration of the pioneering spirit that continues to inspire car designers today. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CARROZZIERI-ITALIANI | WIKIPEDIA | CITROENVIE | CARSBONHAM | CONCEPTCARZ | OLDCONCEPTCARS ]
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Monday, July 8, 2024

Pagani Epitome: The First-Ever Manual Huayra Unleashed

📢New SUPERCAR - Every once in a while, the world of supercars welcomes a new star that pushes the boundaries of engineering and design. The latest creation from Pagani Automobili, the Pagani Huayra Epitome, promises to do just that. 
The Pagani Huayra Epitome, a unique one-off supercar commissioned by a wealthy client, is the first Huayra with a manual transmission. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Despite the recent launch of the Pagani Utopia, seen as the successor to the Huayra, the company’s dedication to innovation remains strong. Pagani has a history of producing exceptional versions of their models, as seen with the Codalunga, the Imola, and the Huayra R. The Epitome continues this tradition, debuting at this year's Goodwood Festival of Speed.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome undergoes a subtle yet impactful makeover with updated front and rear bumper treatments, LED lighting accents, and a larger grille, enhancing both airflow and aesthetics. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
A significant milestone for Pagani, the Huayra Epitome is the first Huayra to feature a manual transmission. This model was commissioned by a wealthy client who desired a manual shifter. The seven-speed gearbox, crafted by Xtrac, includes the latest triple-disc clutch for enhanced torque transmission. The gearbox is housed within a beautifully crafted aluminum open gate, reminiscent of the Utopia.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome features a prominent integrated rear wing on the trunk lid, draped in a dark blue carbon fiber weave with luxurious gold accents and wheels. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Under the hood, the Huayra Epitome boasts a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 engine from Mercedes-AMG. This powerhouse delivers 852 horsepower and 811 pound-feet of torque, reaching up to 6,700 rpm. The Epitome matches the Utopia in power, achieving a top speed of 217.5 miles per hour. A six-way titanium exhaust system amplifies the engine’s roar, complemented by a blown diffuser that provides extra downforce.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome includes a "Super Soft" mode for leisurely drives on scenic routes like Monaco or Lake Como, automatically deactivating above 93 mph to maintain optimal performance. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Pagani engineers have refined the suspension system for the Epitome, reducing pitch and roll compared to the standard Huayra. The car also features a "Super Soft" mode, offering a cushioned ride for leisurely drives, perfect for scenic routes around Monaco or Lake Como. Notably, this mode automatically deactivates at speeds exceeding 93 mph, ensuring performance isn’t compromised.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome's interior is adorned with leather, carbon fiber, and aluminum, and also features softer details like a wooden shift knob with an exposed shifter mechanism for the manual gearbox. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
The exterior design of the Huayra Epitome receives a subtle yet impactful makeover. New front and rear bumper treatments with LED lighting accents and a larger grille enhance airflow and aesthetics. A prominent integrated rear wing adorns the trunk lid, and the entire body is wrapped in a dark blue carbon fiber weave. Gold accents and wheels add a touch of luxury to the overall look.
The Pagani Huayra Epitome boasts a twin-turbocharged 6.0-liter V-12 engine with a unique six-way titanium exhaust system that amplifies the engine’s roar, complemented by a blown diffuser for extra downforce. (Picture from: CarThrottle)
Crafted by Pagani’s Grandi Complicazioni special vehicles division, the Huayra Epitome embodies the pinnacle of automotive artistry and engineering. The project required nine months of meticulous planning and another ten months of precise execution. Unfortunately, for enthusiasts eager to own this masterpiece, the Huayra Epitome is a one-of-a-kind creation, ensuring its status as a rare and coveted gem in the automotive world.
In a world where automotive innovation is constant, the Pagani Huayra Epitome stands out as a celebration of engineering brilliance and exquisite design. This extraordinary vehicle not only continues the legacy of the Huayra but also sets a new benchmark for future supercars. Whether cruising through picturesque landscapes or making a statement on the track, the Huayra Epitome is a true testament to Pagani's relentless pursuit of perfection.*** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | PAGANI AUTOMOBILI | GOODWOOD | MOTOR1 | CARSCOOPS | PISTONHEADS | CARTHROTTLE ]
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Sunday, July 7, 2024

Pyramid on Wheels: Citroën Karin's 1980s Concept Car

Weird ONES - The automotive world has always been a playground for creativity and innovation, and the 1970s to 1980s were no exception. This decade saw the birth of many unique and intriguing concept cars that pushed the boundaries of design and imagination. Among these, the Citroën Karin stood out as a striking example of the era's daring vision, despite arriving a bit late to the conceptual party compared to its contemporaries like the Aston Martin Bulldog, Lancia Stratos Zero, Lamborghini Bravo, and Jaguar Ascot.
The 1980 Citroën Karin Concept was a pure design exercise with no intention of reaching production, designed by Trevor Fiore, a newcomer to Citroën who would later replace the legendary Robert Opron. (Picture from: GQMagazine)
The Citroën Karin, unveiled at the 1980 Paris Motor Show, was a testament to the bold and unconventional ideas that characterized the period. Designed by Trevor Fiore, a newcomer to Citroën who would later replace the legendary Robert Opron, the Karin was a pure design exercise with no intention of reaching production. Its most distinctive feature was its radical 1+2 seating layout, which placed the driver in the center flanked by two passengers, a setup that emphasized the car's futuristic and avant-garde nature.
The 1980 Citroën Karin Concept was a one-off wedge of sci-fi fantasy combined with pyramid canopy, and few things before or since have harnessed the laws of trigonometry to such drastic effect. (Picture from: Autoweek)
Fiore's creation took the concept of sharp-edged, trapezoidal shapes to an extreme, building on the design language of earlier concept cars like the Aston Martin Bulldog. The Karin's angular lines and nearly flat surfaces were so sharp that they seemed almost capable of cutting paper. This small, pyramid-shaped coupe housed its engine far in the front, with a compact, glass-heavy greenhouse that led to a less aggressive rear window. The front fascia was dominated by large headlights that occupied nearly the entire width, giving the Karin a unique and somewhat alien appearance.
The 1980 Citroën Karin Concept designed by Trevor Fiore, and also capable to accommodate three occupants inside the cabin with composition of two passengers on the right and left of the driver who sits in the middle. (Picture from: Autoweek)
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Karin was its interior. The car featured a tube-shaped steering column that extended prominently from the dashboard, crowned by a signature Citroën steering wheel equipped with actual telephone buttons. All the controls were positioned around the hub of the steering column or on small pods at the three and nine o'clock positions, echoing the design of the Maserati Boomerang concept. This arrangement created an unconventional and futuristic driving experience, reinforcing the Karin's status as a design study rather than a practical vehicle.
The 1980 Citroën Karin Concept adorned with  a tube-shaped steering column that extended prominently from the dashboard, crowned by a signature Citroën steering wheel equipped with actual telephone buttons. (Picture from: TopGear)
The Karin's pyramid shape also contributed to its wide windshield, ensuring that the driver's central seating position offered unobstructed visibility. The car's unique three-occupant layout, with the driver in the middle, further emphasized its departure from traditional automotive design. Despite its futuristic appearance and innovative features, the Karin was never intended to be a production model. However, its influence could be seen in later Citroën designs, such as the XM sedan introduced a few years afterward.
The 1980 Citroën Karin Concept designed by Trevor Fiore, and also capable to accommodate three occupants inside the cabin with composition of two passengers on the right and left of the driver who sits in the middle. (Picture from: GQMagazine)
In 1981, Citroën expanded on the Karin's design language with the creation of the Xenia, an MPV concept that applied the same geometric principles in a more practical and production-friendly format. The Xenia's design hinted at the future direction of MPVs, foreshadowing models like the Renault Espace that would emerge later in the decade.
Citroën expanded on the Karin's design language in 1981 with the creation of the Xenia, an MPV concept that applied the same geometric principles in a more practical and production-friendly format. (Picture from: CarNewsDesign)
Reflecting on the Citroën Karin today, it resembles a prop from a futuristic film or a testbed for stealth technology, reminiscent of the radar-evading shapes of the F-117 Nighthawk. The inspiration for this daring concept stemmed from Citroën's need to make a bold statement at the 1980 Paris Motor Show, where they lacked a production or concept car to showcase. The Karin not only addressed this need but also left an indelible mark on the history of automotive design.
Throughout automotive history, the Citroën Karin stands as a symbol of an era that celebrated innovation and creativity. Its sharp lines and unconventional features continue to captivate enthusiasts and designers alike, reminding us of a time when the possibilities in car design seemed limitless. A similar spirit was seen in the 1993 Stealth Tech 1, built by a privateer, which also embraced bold and futuristic concepts with its unique and unconventional design. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GQMAGAZINE | AUTOWEEK | TOPGEAR | CARNEWSDESIGN ]
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Saturday, July 6, 2024

Tapping into Obscurity: Unveiling the Enigmatic Lamborghini Islero

Rare ONES - The Lamborghini Islero may not be as widely recognized as some of its siblings from the Italian manufacturer, but its allure and history make it a gem for car enthusiasts. Produced between 1968 and 1969, this grand tourer was designed to replace the 400 GT and boasted Lamborghini's powerful V12 engine, a hallmark of the brand's performance legacy.
The jaw-dropping Islero showcased here was Mr. Lamborghini's personal raging bull, highlighting Ferruccio's meticulous attention to detail in crafting this bespoke grand tourer. (Picture from: ClassicDriver)
What sets the Islero apart is not just its mechanical prowess but also its role in popular culture. The car made an appearance in the 1970s thriller 'The Man Who Haunted Himself,' adding a touch of glamour and mystique to its already impressive resume.

Crafted by Carrozzeria Marazzi, the Islero's design focused on combining elegance with functionality. The spacious interior, excellent external visibility, and enhanced soundproofing ensured a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience for both the driver and passengers.
Ferrucio Lamborghini poses with his new V12 powered sports car and one of the Lamborghini tractors. (Picture from: HotCars)
Debuting alongside the Lamborghini Espada at the 1968 Geneva Auto Show, the Islero presented a more conservative alternative to its predecessor, embracing a traditional 2 + 2 coupé style that exuded timeless sophistication.
Lamborghini Islero is a grand tourer produced by Lamborghini between 1968 - 1969, bodied by Carrozzeria Marazzi, and made as to the replacement of the 400 GT. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
Lamborghini's tradition of naming cars after bulls continued with the Islero, drawing its name from the bull that famously ended the life of Spanish bullfighter Manuel 'Manolete' Rodriguez Sánchez. This naming convention added a layer of heritage and significance to the model.
Lamborghini Islero which is basically the 400 GT bodied, with good external visibility, a more spacious interior, and added soundproof for the comfort of the driver and passengers. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
 Under the hood, the Islero roared with a Lamborghini V12 3,929 cc engine, delivering 325 bhp (242 kW) of power, thanks in part to the Weber 40 DCOE carburetor. Paired with a five-speed manual transmission system, the Islero could sprint from 0-60 mph (97 kph) in just 6.4 seconds, reaching a top speed of 154 mph (248 kph).
Lamborghini Islero appears in the 2 + 2 coupé style and visually intended to be a more conservative alternative of the previous 400 GT traditional style. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The success of the Islero led to an updated model, the Islero S or Islero GTS, launched in 1969. This iteration featured stylistic enhancements such as engine cooling vents on the front fenders, an enlarged scoop hood, and revised fenders, elevating both performance and aesthetics.
Lamborghini Islero is equipped with a Lamborghini's V12 3,929 cc engine the same engine used by the 400 GT, Miura, Espada, and Jarama are capable of producing about 325 bhp (242 kW) of power. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
The Islero S boasted an improved V12 engine, generating 350 bhp (261 kW) of power and achieving a top speed of 161 mph (259 kph) with an even quicker acceleration of 0-60 mph (97 kph) in 6.2 seconds. These enhancements solidified the Islero's status as a high-performance grand tourer.
Lamborghini Islero is able to run-up to a top speed of 154 mph (248 kph), with the acceleration from 0-60 mph (97 kph) in 6.4 seconds. (Picture from: OtoBlitz)
With a total production of 225 units including both Islero and Islero S variants, this model remains a testament to Lamborghini's commitment to engineering excellence and timeless design. Its legacy is further underscored by the fact that founder Ferruccio Lamborghini himself chose the Islero as his personal vehicle, cementing its place in automotive history.
In a world of fast-evolving automotive technologies, the Lamborghini Islero stands as a reminder of a golden era where craftsmanship, style, and performance converged to create automotive masterpieces. *** [EKA [30092020] | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | CLASSICDRIVER | RETROPOWER.CO.UK | VINTAGE CLASSIC CARS | HOTCARS ]
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Friday, July 5, 2024

Maserati MC20 Leggenda & Icona: Embracing Legendary Heritage in Style

📢Legendary Heritage - Maserati has quietly reminded the automotive world of its formidable presence with the launch of two limited edition models, marking two decades since its triumphant return to racing. The Maserati MC20, a captivating blend of performance and aesthetics, often slips under the radar in conversations dominated by other supercar giants.
A pair of new MC20 supercar models, the Icona and Leggenda, are inspired by the legendary MC12 model that made a splash both on the track and as a respected V12-powered road car. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
However, in a landscape where automotive marvels are evolving rapidly, the MC20 stands tall as a testament to timeless elegance and exhilarating driving experiences, boasting an impressive 630hp from its twin-turbocharged Nettuno V6 engine.

The significance of Maserati's resurgence in motorsport cannot be overstated, particularly with the MC12 Stradale and the iconic MC12 GT1 from Vitaphone Racing Team making waves both as revered V12-powered road car and beast on the track. Drawing inspiration from this illustrious history, Maserati introduces the MC20 Icona and MC20 Leggenda, each limited to just 20 units, in honor of this milestone.
The Maserati MC20 Icona, dressed in the distinguished Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery, draws inspiration from its legendary predecessor, the MC12 Stradale. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
The MC20 Icona pays homage to its predecessor, the MC12 Stradale, sporting the distinguished Bianco Audace Matte and Blu Stradale livery. While reminiscent of past designs, the Icona distinguishes itself with added touches such as the Italian flag adorning its doors, bespoke hubcap designs on chrome-plated Trident wheels, and bespoke four-way monocoque racing seats.
The Maserati MC20 Icona posed along with its legendary predecessor, the MC12 Stradale. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Meanwhile, the MC20 Leggenda exudes a captivating allure with its Nero Essenza and Digital Mint Matte livery, inspired by the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. This variant elevates the sensory experience with detailed enhancements, including a striking yellow Trident logo and unique engine cover badges proclaiming its exclusivity.
The Maserati MC20 Leggenda exudes a captivating allure with its Nero Essenza and Digital Mint Matte livery, inspired by the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Both limited editions encapsulate Maserati's commitment to blending cutting-edge technology with timeless design cues, offering enthusiasts a rare opportunity to own a piece of automotive history. While pricing details remain undisclosed, the anticipation among avid Maserati aficionados is palpable, with reservations expected to flood in for these bespoke masterpieces.
The Maserati MC20 Leggenda is posed alongside its legendary predecessor, the MC12 GT1 from the championship-winning Vitaphone Racing team. (Picture from: PistonHeads)
The exclusivity of these models is not just about the limited number of units; it’s about the unique narrative each car tells. From the meticulous craftsmanship to the historical liveries, every detail is a nod to Maserati's rich racing legacy. Owners of the MC20 Icona and Leggenda will not just drive a car; they will be part of an exclusive club that celebrates two decades of racing excellence and the relentless pursuit of perfection.
Both the MC20 Icona and Leggenda are powered by the potent Nettuno V6 engine, and their engine covers boast badges with the inscriptions 'ICONA. UNA DI 20' or 'LEGGENDA. UNA DI 20.' (Picture from: PistonHeads)
Adding to the excitement, Maserati has integrated advanced technology and performance enhancements into these limited editions. Both the Icona and Leggenda are equipped with state-of-the-art features that elevate driving dynamics and comfort, making each drive an exhilarating experience. This seamless blend of heritage and innovation showcases Maserati’s ability to honor its past while embracing the future of automotive design. | untlHJbT7g8 |
Looking beyond the exquisite design and powerful performance, the launch of these limited edition MC20 models signifies Maserati's ongoing evolution and vision for the future. As the automotive industry transitions towards sustainability and innovation, Maserati remains at the forefront, blending heritage with modernity to create timeless masterpieces. The MC20 Icona and Leggenda serve as a glimpse into Maserati's exciting future, where luxury, performance, and sustainability converge to redefine the standards of automotive excellence. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | MASERATI | PISTONHEADS | GENTSPOST ]
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Thursday, July 4, 2024

Meet the Innotech Mysterro: A Mid-Engine Corvette Concept 25 Years Before the C8

Forgotten ONES - Motor shows have always been the perfect stage for unveiling concept cars—those extravagant, futuristic vehicles that stir our imaginations. These cars often remain tantalizingly out of reach, like the flying cars we've long dreamed of. However, the automotive industry thrives on such visionary creations, as they embody the spirit of innovation and hint at the possibilities of what might be achievable.
The Innotech Mysterro, an extraordinary vehicle from the creative mind of Václav Král, a distinguished automotive designer from the Czech Republic, debuted at the Brno Motor Show in June 1995. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
One such dream manifested in the form of the Innotech Mysterro, an extraordinary vehicle that emerged from the creative mind of Václav Král, a distinguished automotive designer from the Czech Republic. Král, celebrated for his work with Skoda and his involvement in the experimental Formula 1 'KIN' project, is perhaps most renowned for the Tatra MTX V8. The Mysterro, a clear evolution of Král’s earlier work.
The Innotech Mysterro featured a tubular spaceframe chassis covered by an extravagant fiberglass body, with striking elements like a steeply raked windscreen, large side air vents, that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
The Mysterro’s design was a testament to Král's ingenuity. It featured a tubular spaceframe chassis covered by an extravagant fiberglass body, with striking elements such as a steeply raked windscreen, large side air vents, and a deep rear body groove that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. The car rode on custom-made three-piece center-lock OZ Racing alloy wheels, adding to its unique appeal.
The Innotech Mysterro was a fair-weather vehicle with no roof, leaving its opulent cabin exposed to the elements at all times. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
The interior of the Mysterro was as distinctive as its exterior. It sported salmon pink Connolly leather upholstery, Recaro seats, a Momo Corse steering wheel, and a carbon-fiber dashboard, all of which screamed luxury and exclusivity. However, it was a fair-weather vehicle with no roof, leaving its opulent cabin exposed to the elements at all times.
The Innotech Mysterro rode on custom-made three-piece center-lock OZ Racing alloy wheels, adding to its unique appeal. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
From a technical perspective, the Mysterro was a marvel. This two-door, two-seater roadster was mid-engined and rear-wheel drive, featuring a liquid-cooled V8 engine with a 5.7-liter displacement. It boasted an output of 300 horsepower at 4600 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm at 4200 rpm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 270 km/h. The suspension system consisted of front double transverse hinges with coil springs and a rear multi-element setup, ensuring exceptional handling and performance. Ventilated disc brakes on both the front and rear provided robust stopping power.
The Innotech Mysterro boasted an output of 300 horsepower at 4600 rpm and a torque of 470 Nm at 4200 rpm, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 270 km/h. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
The Innotech Mysterro made its grand entrance at the Brno Motor Show in June 1995. It was a striking, roofless roadster, capturing the attention and imagination of all who saw it. Although initial plans included an engine upgrade to 400 horsepower and the potential installation of a 6.3-liter Chevrolet V8 or even a 9.6-liter 750-horsepower Falconer V12, these enhancements never materialized. Despite its bold design and impressive specifications, the Mysterro remained a one-off, a prototype that never reached full production.
The interior of the Mysterro was adorned with salmon pink Connolly leather upholstery, Recaro seats, a Momo Corse steering wheel, and a carbon-fiber dashboard, all of which screamed luxury and exclusivity. (Picture from: GTSupreme)
Over the years, the Mysterro has occasionally appeared in auction catalogs, often with a price tag reflecting its rarity and uniqueness. It was once estimated at $150,000, a figure that underscored the car's exclusivity. Although the plan was to create a series of 25 cars aimed at the American and Arab markets, only one was ever confirmed, with some sources suggesting up to five units might have been produced. Yet, the Mysterro’s legacy lies in its singularity and the vision it represented.
The Innotech Mysterro's rear adorned with a deep rear body groove that gave it the quintessential look of a 1990s supercar. (Picture from: CollectingCars)
More than two decades later, Chevrolet introduced the first mid-engined Corvette, the C8. This groundbreaking shift for the iconic sports car echoed the pioneering spirit of Václav Král's Mysterro. Though the Mysterro itself did not spark a production line, its design and concept foreshadowed a significant evolution in automotive engineering, proving that sometimes, the dreams seen in concept cars can indeed inspire future reality. | ogOqS8lD-eI |
The Innotech Mysterro stands as a testament to the power of visionary design and the endless possibilities that concept cars bring to the automotive world. It serves as a reminder that even if a dream car never sees mass production, its influence can still shape the future in unexpected ways. *** [EKA | FROM VARIOUS SOURCES | GTSUPREME | AUTA5P.EU | THETRUTHABOUTCARS | SUPERCARS.NET | COLLECTINGCARS ]
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